[Infected prosthesis of large joints]

The problems related to infections of hip- and knee-prostheses are generally known. The aim of the operation- a mobile and painless joint is jeopardized. The best therapeutic measure has to be evaluated individually by a differentiated diagnostic procedure. The health condition of the patient, type and localization of the infection, bacteriology and resistance of the microbes as well as the biomechanical condition of the artificial hip joint and the trophic quality of bone and soft tissue play an important role. The different therapeutic concepts we can dispose of should take these factors into account, so that a successful healing may be expected in 80 to 90% of the cases.